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3 reasons signing Dwight Howard is a good move for Hawks

By Charles Rahrig V

Apr 10, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Rockets center Dwight Howard (12) warms up before the game against the Los Angeles Lakers at the Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 10, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Rockets center Dwight Howard (12) warms up before the game against the Los Angeles Lakers at the Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /
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Apr 18, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Houston Rockets center Dwight Howard (12) holds onto a rebound against the Golden State Warriors in the fourth quarter in game two of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at Oracle Arena. The Warriors defeated the Rockets 115-106. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 18, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Houston Rockets center Dwight Howard (12) holds onto a rebound against the Golden State Warriors in the fourth quarter in game two of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at Oracle Arena. The Warriors defeated the Rockets 115-106. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports /

3. The Hawks have another rim protector

Believe it or not, Dwight Howard fits what the Atlanta Hawks need on paper. With Al Horford a free agent and re-signing him no guarantee, the Hawks need someone that can grab boards and anchor the paint for them.

It also should allow their offense to open up a bit, as Horford was a little more versatile and would hit shots. With Howards focus of scoring more in the paint, it should allow Paul Millsap’s numbers to take off and him to be able to stretch the floor a little better.

With Howard inside, the Hawks have the ability to run with different defensive sets and head coach Mike Budenholzer is one of the best in the league at throwing a variety of different looks at teams.

If Howard can start playing again like he did when he was in Orlando, the Hawks are going to be one of the toughest teams to beat in the Eastern Conference. They have the defense and scoring to win games now.

If they can re-sign Horford, then the Hawks might really be onto something and things will get really interesting going forward. Perhaps it would lead to another trade?

Regardless, Howard should be able to grab boards and keep opposing offenses off the glass.

Next: 2. Paul Millsap should benefit greatly

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